Create+an+Electronic+Professional+Learning+Network

Objectives:
 * I will create my own electronic PLN (I know this an activity not an objective)
 * I will be able to distinguish between searching the world wide web for information and using Web 2.0 tools to "mine" the web for me.

This activity is slightly adapted from a session presented at the Metroplex Association for Science Supervisors (MASS) by Region 10 Science Consultant, Amber Jones.

Watch RSS in Plain English on YouTube. It will explain how information can come to you rather than searching for what you need.

Watch Google Reader in Plain English on YouTube. It will explain how to use a tool to manage multiple RSS feeds.

If you don't have a GMail account go to www.google.com/gmail to set up an account.

Go to www.google.com/reader to set up your google reader. Navigate to any page with an RSS feed, copy the URL. In Google Reader click on Add Subscription, paste the URL in the box.

Consider adding the following to your reader: [|www.digitalgoonies.com] -- Digital Goonies Web 2.0 and cool, free tech applications [] --- ASCD Blog [] --- Alan November Blog

Set up a Twitter Account. Go to [|www.twitter.com]

Need help understanding Twitter? Watch Twitter in Plain Engilsh on YouTube

Once your account is set up click on Who to Follow. Use the search box to find people to follow. Once you find someone to follow, look at who they follow to see if you want to follow them too.

Suggestions of who to follow: GCISD C & I : gcisdcurriculum Tony: aszahn66 Texas Computer Educators Association : TCEA ASCD Your state and national education organizations.

Watch Twitter Search in Plain English on YouTube. Consider searching #teched and/or #edtech to look for topics on technology and education.

Using Google Reader and Twitter to follow the right blogs and people will bring opportunities for bit-sized professional growth straight to you.

Record your notes, reflections, and questions by clicking on the discussion tab at the top of the page. Feel free to read and respond to posts.

When you want to wrap up your learning at this virtual station, please convene at the screen and text an idea from your learning here. Re-group and select another station.